The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has eased visa requirements related to the Ebola virus for Ugandan citizens by canceling the suspension of new visa issuance that was introduced in June 2026 following the development of the situation with this virus.
The updated measures were announced on Wednesday by the National Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) jointly with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
According to the revised rules, the suspension of visas for Ugandan citizens has been lifted, allowing them to enter the UAE provided that at least 21 days have passed since their departure from Uganda.
The revised rules also provide for entry into the country for certain categories of students, embassy staff, and holders of diplomatic passports, subject to compliance with approved medical procedures.
Ugandan students who studied in UAE educational institutions before June 2026, as well as their family members, may enter the country in accordance with approved medical protocols.
Entry is also permitted for administrative staff of the Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in the UAE holding ordinary passports, as well as their families, provided that approved procedures are followed.
Furthermore, holders of diplomatic and special passports issued by the Government of the Republic of Uganda may enter the UAE according to approved medical procedures applicable to exempted categories and in coordination with relevant authorities.
Humanitarian and medical cases will be considered individually, according to approved regulations and in cooperation with relevant departments.
Individuals traveling to the UAE for treatment must provide approved medical reports indicating the diagnosis, the name of the medical facility where treatment will be conducted, and the planned start date of therapy, based on the circumstances of each case.
Despite the easing of measures for Ugandan citizens, existing precautions for two other African countries remain unchanged. Preventive measures currently in place for the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan are maintained in accordance with approved rules and in light of continuous monitoring of the epidemiological situation in both countries.
NCEMA, MoHAP, and ICP confirmed that these steps reflect the UAE's commitment to protecting public health, strengthening preparedness, and responding to health risks. Authorities will continue to monitor the epidemiological situation and update precautionary measures in line with emerging events and risk assessments.
